According to Saed News’ culinary section, date cookies are among the most traditional Iranian sweets, prepared in different ways in cities like Kerman, northern regions, and Khuzestan. You may have heard of them under names like Nan-e Kermani or Kolompeh, their delightful aroma filling the streets of these cities.
Flour – 2 cups
Vegetable oil – 2 tablespoons
Yogurt – 2 tablespoons
Milk – 1/3 cup
Sugar – 2 tablespoons
Egg – 1
Baking powder – 1 teaspoon
Vanilla extract – as needed
Dates – 1 cup
Cinnamon – 1 teaspoon
Cardamom powder – 1 teaspoon
Egg yolk – 1
Sesame seeds – as needed
Brewed saffron – ½ teaspoon
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Before starting, let all ingredients sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the egg, sugar, yogurt, oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well using a whisk or mixer. Sift the flour and baking powder in a separate bowl, then gradually add them to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until a soft dough forms that doesn’t stick to your hands. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Wash the dates, remove the skins, and take out the pits. Blend them with cinnamon and cardamom in a food processor until smooth. If you don’t have a processor, mash the dates with a fork and mix in the spices. Take small portions of the mixture, roll them into balls, and set them aside on a tray.
Take a small portion of dough (about the size of a walnut) and flatten it in your palm or on a work surface. Place a date ball in the center, then wrap the dough around it and seal. Use a knife to make decorative cuts on top if desired. Repeat until all the dough and filling are used.
Place a thick-bottomed pan on low heat with a heat diffuser underneath and let it warm for 10 minutes. Lightly grease the pan, then arrange the cookies inside, leaving some space between them. Brush the tops with egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Cover the pan with a lid wrapped in a kitchen towel to trap moisture. Let the cookies cook for about 15 minutes on low heat until golden brown.
If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 170°C (340°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the cookies on it. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the tops turn golden. Let them cool before serving.
While dates are the primary ingredient, you can also add chopped walnuts for extra crunch. Additionally, a hint of ginger can add a warm, spicy touch.
Simple Scored Design: Flatten the dough, add the filling, then make a few decorative cuts on top.
Using Cookie Molds: Shape the cookies using molds for a more polished look.
Rolled Style: Spread the dough, add the filling, roll it up, and cut into smaller pieces before baking.
For an elegant touch, brush the cookies with honey or syrup after baking and sprinkle with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, crushed pistachios, or slivered almonds.
With this easy no-oven recipe, you can enjoy homemade date cookies perfect for Ramadan, tea time, or any special gathering. Give it a try and share your experience!
